The Rewarding Journey of Disability Sport: Energy In, Appreciation Out

There’s something uniquely rewarding about working in disability sports—it’s not just

about coaching; it’s about changing lives, witnessing personal victories, and being a

part of someone’s journey toward progress and self-confidence. Each day in this space

is a gift, but it’s important to understand that it requires a special kind of commitment

and energy, both from the coach and the athlete.

The key to success in disability sports is not only understanding the sport but

understanding the person first. The approach to coaching adaptive athletes demands

flexibility, patience, and a willingness to give energy to each individual’s needs.

However, in giving that energy, it’s equally important to be open to receiving the energy

of appreciation and the fulfilment that comes with seeing lives change, sometimes in

ways that go far beyond physical progress.

Energy In: Coaching with Care and Adaptability

Coaching in disability sports isn’t a one-size-fits-all model. Each athlete is different, and

the needs of an adaptive athlete often fluctuate daily. To be successful in this field, you

need to approach every athlete with care, understanding, and adaptability. It’s not just

about having the best drills or exercises; it’s about meeting the athlete where they are—

physically, mentally, and emotionally—on any given day.

Here are a few key aspects to remember when giving your energy to an athlete:

1. Know the Person Before the Sport: Every athlete has a unique story, history, and

set of abilities. Understanding their personal journey helps build trust, which is

essential in disability sport. The relationship you build with them is the

foundation upon which their progress will be made. Only once you know the

person behind the athlete can you coach them in a way that’s tailored to their

needs.

2. Coach the Athlete and the Person Simultaneously: In disability sports, it’s crucial

to coach both the physical and emotional aspects of the athlete. Some days

they’ll be physically capable of pushing harder, while on others, they may need a

gentler approach. You have to wear multiple hats as a coach: sometimes you’ll

be a motivator, sometimes a listener, and always a supporter.

3. Approach Every Day Differently: There will be good days and bad days, and it’s

important to recognise both. On the good days, capitalise on the momentum—

push your athlete to new heights. On the bad days, remember that activity is still

important, even if it’s scaled back. Every day doesn’t have to be a win in the

traditional sense, but every day needs engagement. Consistency is key, even on

the toughest days.

4. Work with Regressions: Bad days happen, whether due to physical pain, mental

fatigue, or life’s many challenges. On those days, your athlete may not be able to

perform at their usual level, and that’s okay. It’s your job to adapt and work withregressions, scaling exercises down while still keeping them active. In disability

sports, sometimes success is simply maintaining movement.

Appreciation Out: The Energy Given Back

For all the energy you give to adaptive athletes, the appreciation and joy you receive in

return is immense. Every small victory feels monumental, and the bond you build with

your athletes is unlike anything else. There’s a mutual exchange of energy: as you give

your time, knowledge, and patience, you receive gratitude, appreciation, and the

incredible satisfaction of watching someone achieve what they may have never thought

possible.

1. Progress is the Ultimate Reward: There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing an

athlete make progress—whether it’s mastering a new skill, improving strength, or

just building confidence. Each small step is a huge milestone in their journey. As

a coach, you get to share in that progress, knowing that your guidance played a

role in transforming their life.

2. Changing Lives Beyond the Sport: The work you do in disability sports is about so

much more than just physical fitness or competition. It’s about changing lives.

The confidence that athletes build in the gym translates into their personal lives,

giving them a sense of independence, pride, and resilience. When you witness

this, you realise that your energy is making an impact far beyond the sport.

3. Building a Community: Disability sports foster a sense of community unlike any

other. The shared experience of overcoming challenges—whether physical,

mental, or societal—brings people together. As a coach, you’re not just working

with athletes; you’re helping to build a community of people who support one

another. And that community will give you strength on the tough days, just as you

give strength to your athletes.

The Need for a Flexible Approach

One of the most important things to remember in disability sports is the need for

flexibility. Every athlete progresses at their own pace, and success looks different for

each person. As a coach, you need to be patient and willing to adjust your methods as

needed. This requires being present and responsive to both good days and bad days.

• On Good Days: These are the days to push boundaries, try new drills, and build

on momentum. When athletes are feeling strong, take advantage of that energy

and encourage them to go beyond what they thought they could achieve.

• On Bad Days: These days are just as important. Adaptive athletes need activity

even when they’re not at their best. Movement helps maintain physical health

and boosts mental resilience. On these days, regress exercises, focus on form,

or simply keep things light, but keep them engaged.

Consistency is key. Even if an athlete has a tough day, getting them to show up and stay

involved is a victory in itself.

Everyday is a Reward

Being part of disability sports means that every day presents a new opportunity to make

a difference. The progress you see, the smiles you share, and the challenges you

overcome together are the ultimate rewards. It’s a journey of giving energy, yes, but

you’ll quickly learn that the energy you receive in return is just as valuable.

When you’re open to the energy of appreciation that comes back from your athletes,

coaching becomes a mutual exchange—a partnership that makes every moment

worthwhile. Each day, you’re not just coaching a sport; you’re coaching a person

through a process of growth, resilience, and transformation. And that’s a reward that

never gets old.

Conclusion

In conclusion, disability sports demand a unique balance of energy, empathy, and

adaptability. It’s more than just coaching skills; it’s about building relationships,

understanding your athletes as individuals, and being flexible enough to adjust to their

needs on any given day. But in return, the reward is immense—watching lives change,

seeing progress in action, and being a part of a community that lifts one another up,

every step of the way.